Focus on Battle and Combat: The book heavily emphasizes the physical battles and military strategies, sometimes overshadowing the political and social complexities of the conflict. This can lead to a somewhat simplistic view of the conflict and its underlying causes.
Limited Perspective: The narrative primarily focuses on the perspective of King Abdullah II and the Jordanian army, offering a limited understanding of other sides involved, including Palestinian perspectives or the role of other regional powers.
Historical Accuracy: While Jordan makes an effort to be accurate, some critics have pointed out factual inconsistencies or potential biases in his accounts. This is inherent in any historical work relying on personal memories and interpretations.
Lack of Depth on Certain Aspects: Some reviewers have expressed a desire for more detailed explorations of certain aspects, such as the socio-economic conditions in Jordan during the conflict or the impact of the war on the civilian population.
Overly Positive Portrayal: The book paints a largely positive picture of Jordan's role in the conflict, highlighting its successes while potentially downplaying its limitations or controversial actions.
Style and Accessibility: While Jordan's writing style is generally considered engaging, some might find it dry or overly technical, particularly for readers not familiar with military terminology and tactics.
Limited Impact Beyond Jordan: The book primarily focuses on the Jordanian perspective and its experiences in the conflict, potentially overlooking the broader regional context and its impact on other countries.
Overall: "The Forged By Fire" is a valuable contribution to understanding Jordan's role in the Gulf War, but it is important to acknowledge its limitations and interpret it within a broader historical context.
It is essential to remember that these are potential criticisms and not definitive weaknesses. The value of the book lies in its unique perspective and insights into Jordan's experiences.